Bill > H4651

This bill amends South Carolina law by adding a new section that addresses parental alienation in child custody cases. Specifically, if a court finds that a parent has engaged in parental alienation (a behavior where one parent intentionally undermines or interferes with the child's relationship with the other parent), the court must order the alienating parent to reimburse the targeted parent for three categories of expenses: (1) all reasonable attorney's fees related to litigating the alienation issue, (2) costs associated with professional services like supervised visitation, reunification therapy, and counseling aimed at addressing the harm caused by the alienation, and (3) fees for court-appointed professionals such as custody evaluators and guardians ad litem. The court can only waive these reimbursements if it finds by clear and convincing evidence that payment would cause extreme financial hardship that outweighs the need to hold the parent accountable. Importantly, this reimbursement order is in addition to other potential legal remedies, such as modifying custody or visitation arrangements, and is intended to protect the best interests of the child. The bill will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Justice

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4651&session=126&summary=B